Understanding your brain and how hypnotherapy works

Modern clinical Hypnotherapy is grounded in neuroscience and uses the very natural ‘trance’ state – when we are very deeply relaxed- to enable you to make changes in your life. In our Initial consultation meeting, I explain more about how hypnotherapy works, the different parts of your brain and why you might feel as you do.

This short intro video explains a bit more about one part of our brain- known as the ‘primitive brain’ or Chimp – and its role in anxiety, phobias etc. And how we can use modern neuroscience to make changes.

If you’d like to learn more, feel free to book your free initial call now [10-15 mins] and we can discuss a plan for you

My techniques have their foundations in neuroscience. My sessions combine talking therapy, positive coaching with a state of focused relaxation called ‘hypnotic trance’. In this relaxed state, the mind becomes more open to positive suggestions.

One of the reasons hypnotherapy is so effective is that it can reshape deeply ingrained habits and behaviour patterns, as well as reduce stress levels. Stress has been called ‘the greatest health issue facing the world in the 21st century’ (by the World Health Organisation).

We focus together on the ’future you’….. where you want to go, not where you have been.

Solution-focussed hypnotherapy can also help you build a more positive mindset, boost your confidence and visualise your future. Our sessions are generally split 50-50, with the first part focussed on positive thinking, helping you shape positive goals and future ambitions. These techniques are widely used by top athletes and successful business professionals but increasingly by those seeking to live a more positive, successful life.

Our final 20-25 minutes each week are spent on the couch in a deep state of self guided relaxation

You may know someone who has successfully used hypnotherapy to overcome a fear or phobia, or perhaps to stop smoking & vaping. Whilst we often just accept these fears, they can hold us back from achieving goals or even lifelong ambitions. But the same techniques are now proven to help us address broader issues. Our Initial session explains more around how hypnotherapy works in relation to your specific issue or aims.

Our sessions are better described as guided self-hypnosis

Clinical hypnotherapists act as ‘guides’ ; it is you as the client that controls the actual trance session. During hypnosis, the person is guided into this relaxed state where their attention is focused and their mind is open to suggestions, often through a series of verbal or visual cues. This state of relaxation is similar to meditation or daydreaming.

This allows the hypnotist to suggest new ideas, beliefs or behaviours to the person, which they may be more receptive to accepting and adopting than they would be in their normal waking state. Importantly, hypnosis is not a form of ‘mind control’.

The client always retains control over their thoughts and actions. If anything is said that goes against their beliefs or their conscious goals, you will immediately come out of trance.

Hypnosis also affects the brain’s perception of reality, making it easier for the person to imagine themselves in a different situation or state of mind. This can be useful for overcoming issues in a shorter time frame than many therapies or through conscious willpower alone.

After a session, you feel energised, positive & refreshed

Hypnosis is not the same as sleep. When you finish your session, you will feel wide awake and refreshed. Many clients report feeling much calmer, like a weight has been lifted – and much clearer in their thinking. Within our sessions, we will spend roughly half of the time in trance. Around 20-30 minutes is an ideal time for us to achieve our goals.

I also give you a Relaxation audio / MP3 to listen to each night before bedtime. This repetition is crucial to success and is a key factor in how quickly your goals are achieved.

And many clients report that it is a great way to get to sleep & ensure quality rest. If sleep is a particular issue for you , read more here.